OK, it’s not really a “cat” bed. It is actually a doll’s bed from Ikea, but it makes a purr-fect lounge for kitty-cats too. Priced at less than $20 US (2022) , the “DUKTIG” is marketed as a toy bed for children’s dolls. It is Ikea article number: 101.016.64. The Duktig doll bed is constructed of solid pine with a fiberboard bottom. It even comes complete with a bed linen set. As with most Ikea furniture, the doll bed comes flat-packed and requires some assembly—but in this case putting it together is very easy and only takes a few minutes. You don’t even need to use any of your own tools.
Because you are going to be using it as a cat bed, painting it with a washable, waterproof product is the best choice. This way you can easily scrub it down during cleaning and even use a disinfectant on it if necessary. If you leave the wood unfinished, the light colored pine will darken to a yellower tone over time. If you decide to paint the bed begin with a light sanding to open the pores of the wood to accept the paint. Then using a brush or spray paint, apply 2 coats. Let it dry for for 2 days.
Insert the bottom of the bed and add the mattress cushion and cover. You can use the ones supplied by Ikea but if you are handy with a sewing machine, it is easy to make extra cover or two so you can alternate the bedding to allow for laundering.
One Size Fits All
Regardless of the age or size of your kitties, they will enjoy their new bed.
Photo by nekojournal.net
More Than One is Twice the Fun
Just like you do not need to limit yourself to just one cat, you do not need to limit yourself to just one Ikea cat bed either. Indeed, the Ikea doll bed is so inexpensive, you can easily afford to have a bed for each of your kitties. You can even make them into bunk beds—just be sure to add clips to the legs so the beds are firmly attached to one another.
Photo by onelittleproject.com
Photo by Urban
Photo by Urban
Strange Bedfellows
If you have other pets, they too may enjoy a nap in the Ikea bed . . .
Photo by petbunkbedhack
Photo by bunnyapproved
Final Thought
As you can see, for about $25 you can provide your cat with a special place to call its own. Visit your nearest Ikea soon.
Photo by Livedoor
